I want to find swords that my students can use for iaito and tameshigiri.

I know there is many more knowledgeable people out there.

I've looked at:

Paul Chen
Nosyuiaido
AOI
Bugei
and a few others.

We are not looking to invest in shinken at the moment, but need fully functional blades that won't "go to hell" after a few practices. Also, the blades need to be able to endure "beginners".
I have some tall people too. So, I need some longer blades.

If you are a sword practicioner and have an opinion or have had good experiences with a certain make and type please let me know.

Domo Arigato!

mjchip

04-06-2001 09:59 PM

Iaito

Hi Mike,

I currently use a Nosyuiaido iaito (2 shaku 4sun 5bu) and a Paul Chen Bushido Katana for Muso Shinden Ryu Iai practice. The quality of the Nosyu iaito is very good but at a price (mine was $795). As of late, I've been using the Paul Chen live blade for practice but have yet to actually test cut with it. However, the quality of the blade looks and feels pretty solid. At 29+ inches from kissaki to munemachi, it is long enough for me (5'8", 170lbs). I have to say that for a cutting blade you can't beat the $825 price tag (I bought it for $775 plus tax from a local martial arts supply store). I too am looking for a shinken or an older live blade but don't currently have the thousands of dollars to spend on one. Also, my iai ain't that superb where I need a real quality blade. Hope this is of some help.

Mark

MikeE

04-18-2001 02:34 PM

Thanks Mark.

I know my question got lost in the downtime for updating the forums.

Hopefully, more of you will contribute.

In Aiki,

Aikidoka2000

04-18-2001 03:17 PM

Hello Mike,
I sell Iaito made in Japan by the same artisans who make some of the best
quality shinken today. (these people recognized and highly respected by the NBTHK)
I have Iaito for beginners and for masters.
I have a spotless reputation and if it pleases you, please view my site, (which is more or less under construction always)http://www.metablades.com
Check out the armory.
The prices may seem high,
but I can honestly say that my offerings are the best quality possible.
The prices are also negotiable.
Nothing is set in stone.
I do this as a hobby, not for profit,
and I am a Japanese sword enthusiast myself,
so basically your happiness and the ability to create relationships
is the bottom line with me.
If you cannot find what you like on my site, I'll be glad to direct you to other
reputable people.
Warm regards,
-Tom Dehn